The ‘Spend and Save’ scheme is part of the company’s Purple Love Week, an event aimed at minimising the effects the recession has on retailers.
When Purple Love Week started four years ago, its aim was to support local shops in Britain during the quietest time of year by encouraging people to take part in a national tasting event. This year, the tasting event will still be part of the week, yet the overall message is much starker and simpler.
According to the message sent out by event organisers Olives Et Al, the economy can be kept moving by spending in the local economy.
In a statement, the company explained that any money spent in the local economy is worth five times as much to the overall community, so just a fiver works out at being worth at least £25 because the money goes from business to business (meaning the whole community benefits).
“If one person goes out and spends £5 and persuades two more to do the same the next day, then that doubles day after day,” said Giles Henschel, founder of Olives Et Al and Purple Love Week. “For just 25 days, there would be the equivalent of £100m extra in the economy. If giants such as Woolworths can close, imagine what it’s like for the smaller shops in every town and village. So, for Purple Love Week, grab a fiver and spend it in a butchers, a bakers or a great little deli and help save a business on your high street.
“Spend and Save seems contradictory, but it’s also justifiably selfish. It’s all about saving ourselves. If we all spend even a little money, we can all help save ourselves from the turmoil currently running wild in the economy. Be selfish. Spend some money. Keep those financial cogs moving.”
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024